Grof and I shall never be reconciled.

_Brand_.--I journeyed hither with Thorolf's slayers in order to reach an
agreement with you. If it be not your will to accept reconciliation with
us, I demand that you hand over to me possession of all those districts
that are mine by rights, so that I in that manner may obtain sufficient
resources to be able to sustain the fine which you will impose on us for
the slaying.

_Helga_.--Now it is clear that your men have no scruples to kill each
the other, but will by no means be ready to atone for it. With demands
such as these, Brand Kolbeinsson foregoes all chance of reaching an
agreement. You promised me a man's life in this feud, Kolbein. Take
Brand's life, then, and that will take away the inclination for further
rebellion against you. (_Silence_.)

_Botolf_.--And you intend to take Brand's life, when the Peace of God is
at an end?

_Kolbein_.--For the welfare of our Quarter I know no better counsel than
that which Lady Helga has given.

_Helga_.--Less cause even there was against Kalf Guttormsson, and yet
has he been mouldering in his grave these ten years. Asbjorn and Haf,
seize hold of my kinsman Brand!

_Sigurd_.--I have heard that you would spare Brand Kolbeinsson's life if
another man were willing to die for him.

_Helga_.--I did make that condition. (_Laughs_.) Will you fulfill it,
deacon?

_Sigurd_.--No. Because I know you will show no mercy.

_Jorun_ (_leaps up on the dais and lays her head on_ HELGA'S
_knee_).--Take my life instead of Brand Kolbeinsson's life.

_Helga_.--You are out of your senses, lad!

_Jorun_ (_arises, looking at_ LADY HELGA).--You cut close to me ten
years ago; take now my life also!

_Helga_ (_shades her eyes_).--You, were beheaded ten years ago! Has the
lad Guttorm Kalfsson risen from his grave?

_Kolbein_.--Do we see apparitions in the light?

_Broddi_ (_to_ BRAND).--How did your wife Jorun come among our company?
(BRAND _leaps up on the dais and carries_ JORUN _down on his arm. About
all the hall men are heard to say in a low voice_, 'LADY JORUN.' _While
she is being carried down to the floor she extends her arms toward_
HELGA.)

_Jorun_.--Take my life as you have taken my father's and my brother's;
then you need fear no longer that I am egging on my kinsmen to avenge
me on you. (BRAND _sets her down on the floor. They embrace each other
fervently_.)

_Helga_.--Of little worth I hold your life, Jorun; but in order to
keep